[snipping everything said on this thread as there's too much I'd end up quoting ;-)] I read the first 8 Wheel of Time books. I probably won't read any more. My problem, ultimately, was twofold: the story was lost entirely, and throwaway characters. There were entire books -- Path of Daggers comes to mind, as does the one previous to it -- that were unnecessary. They didn't materially advance the plot, and all they did was further confuse the reader. There is an overarching plot to the series; unfortunately, the Robert Jordan has gotten so wrapped up in the tiny little details of his world that the plot itself has been thrown to the winds in many cases. The other problem was that RJ spent way too much time on throwaway characters. EVERYONE had a name and backstory. You'd get a new little character, and he'd be on for exactly three pages: one for his introduction and purpose, one for his *entire life story*, and one for his exit from the book. Then he'd never be seen again. The end result is a plot further confused by a plethora of names that are of no use. This is especially frustrating when you wait a year to read the next book -- by that time, you need three whiteboards and a Rolodex to get everyone's name and purpose straight. I liked the series -- it was very good at the beginning. But it lost its way around the 6th book or so, and by the time it found it again (from what I'm told the latest book is excellent and, more importantly, relevant again) I had lost interest. The only way I'd be able to make sense of a new book is to reread all 6400 pages or so of the first 8 books, and I have other things I want to read. By the way, re: Asmodean -- my friend and I came up with what we think is the answer to the mystery -- it's the only answer that makes sense in light of RJ's comments and the available evidence. I really want to post it here, but I don't want to give away spoilers to those interested in the books. Therefore, if you're curious, email me and I'll tell you. Or, if people don't mind, I'll post it here. :-) Later... -Ari